February: Darwin Gray Update

It’s been a busy start to the year for us as a firm. In an effort to keep the Christmas spirit alive a little longer, we had our office party later than usual on 17th January. We spent the evening at Greenwood & Brown in Cardiff city centre and a great time was had by all, though some ended the night a little ‘merrier’ than others.

On 25th January, Tegen Quinn (Commercial Dispute Resolution Solicitor) and Carl Spencer (Company and Commercial Solicitor) volunteered their time to help judge one of the regional heats of the national client interviewing competition, which took place in Cardiff. The event, which is in its 30th year, pits law students against each other in a test of their client care skills and problem solving abilities. The winners of this year’s national final will go to Puerto Rico to take part in the international competition.

Our employment partners, Fflur Jones and Damian Phillips, have both been in the news recently. Damian wrote an article on the employment law changes being introduced this year, which appeared in both the Western Mail and the Business Argus. Fflur Jones wrote in the Western Mail about “Blue Monday” and the measures which an employer can take to minimise the risk of workplace stress and depression. She also appeared on BBC Radio Wales’ “Wales at Work” programme to discuss the issue.

Meanwhile, Stephen Thompson – our specialist franchising advice partner and an affiliate of the British Franchise Association – attended franchising shows in both Cardiff and Swansea and conducted a short talk on the legal issues surrounding the decision to become a franchisee.

Looking forward to the days and weeks ahead, a team of 5 junior lawyers will be taking part in a charity quiz, organised by JNP Legal in association with Tros Gynnal Plant, on 27 February. We will let you know how they get on. Also, Damian Philips will be taking part in the CEOSleepOut campaign on Thursday 27 March. Damian, along with other business leaders, will sleep out in Cardiff Castle (regardless of weather conditions!). The aim of the campaign is to raise money and awareness for those who suffer homelessness and hardship. You can support Damian and the SleepOut campaign by making a donation here: